In June 2012, I emigrated from the United States to live a happier, more fulfilling life with my wife in Finland. Although I hold a BA in History, I want to pursue a life as a permaculture designer and aid worker because permaculture offers a way towards satiating my innate desire to be a part of the natural world in a positive way.
I came to permaculture after exploring ways that we can directly effect change after becoming disillusioned with more conventional protest methods. Instead of asking others to change their lives, I believe it is more important that we live our values and help others who wish to make a transition from a life based upon consumption. My first permaculture project is an ongoing transformation of my parent's property in North Carolina to a forest garden back-yard and perhaps an open meadow of natives in the south-facing front. Although in the hands of my family now, I have full confidence that it will continue to thrive.
My inlaws have been very receptive to my, admittedly, basic knowledge about permaculture methods and we have begun to implement some basic experiments at their summer cottage in southeastern Finland.
After gaining a better grasp of Finnish and some savings, I wish to take my first PDC and begin small-scale designs at summer cottages here in Finland. In five years time, I wish to have developed my skills to be able to either have my own consultancy or join a Nordic one. During the long winters, I wish to spend time on design work in warmer climates around the world.
I am available for aid work, however, I do not believe I should put the badge on until I have actually participated in aid work!
Location
Helsinki, Finland
Interests
Road cycling, photography
Signature
Pre-June 2012 A Victory Garden documents our typical American suburban lawn to a food forest based upon the permaculture principles.
Post-June 2012 60° N Permaculture follows my permaculture explorations and integration story in Finland.
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